“It’s important,” he said of his fellow defender. “All the lads are very happy, I am sure the fans are very happy, so it is a great end to the season in that respect.

“But, for us, I just echo what everyone is thinking: it is a great boost, a great boost for the club, it’s a great lift for the players and obviously the fans.

“Although it kind of dragged on for a little while, it has been sorted now and we look forward to him being part of his squad like he has been for many, many, many, many, many years. It is fantastic news for us.”